/ Comments Off on MSD job losses a major blow to Wicklow & pharmaceutical sector

The Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Jobs Dara Calleary has called for an urgent response from Minister Richard Bruton to the closure of a major pharmaceutical plant in Rathdrum Co Wicklow.

Deputy Calleary has said the loss of 280 high-quality jobs comes as a major blow to the local economy and to the pharmaceutical sector in Ireland.

“This is devastating news for the 280 workers and their families. MSD has been a major employer in Wicklow for decades and many of the staff members have invested years of hard work in this plant,” said Deputy Calleary.

“I am calling for an immediate response from the Jobs Minister Richard Bruton. We need a guarantee that the State will do everything in its power to support the workers through this extremely difficult time, to seek a buyer for the plant in Rathdrum and to secure alternative employment for the staff.

“The Minister also needs to address the impact of this closure on the pharmaceutical sector in Ireland. Through the work of successive governments supported by State employment agencies, Ireland has gained a strong international reputation as a hub for the pharmaceutical sector. Companies like MSD have provided valuable employment for highly-skilled workers in technology, manufacturing and research & development. MSD’s decision to radically down-scale its operation here is potentially a serious blow to the sector.

“I am calling on the Minister to continue the work of previous governments in developing the pharmaceutical sector in Ireland and encouraging growth and job creation,” said Deputy Calleary.